Teen and Man, 26, Die within Weeks of Each Other After Falling to Their Deaths at Same Ibiza Hotel: Reports
At around 12:40 a.m. local time on Monday, July 21, Gary Kelly, a 19-year-old professional ice hockey player, fell from the third floor of the Ibiza Rocks hotel in San Antonio. Despite the emergency service's efforts, he died at the scene, Spanish news outlets La Razon and La Vanguardia reported. Spain's civil guard told the BBC that Kelly's death appeared to be accidental.
The fatal incident came after 26-year-old Evan Thompson, from Aberdeen in Scotland, fell to his death at the same hotel on July 7, according to BBC News and UK. newspaper The Guardian.
In a statement shared on Facebook, a spokesperson for Ibiza Rocks said, 'We are deeply shocked and devastated by the recent incidents that have tragically occurred. Our priority is to support those affected and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and to fully assist the authorities with their investigations."
'The safety and well-being of our guests has, and always will remain, our highest priority,' the statement continued. 'Given the seriousness of the situation and out of respect for those involved, we believe it is right to pause our advertised events programme at this time."
'All customers will be informed directly via email,' they added.
According to La Vanguardia, the tourist hotspot was scheduled to host performances from several well-known artists this month, including Rudimental, Josh Baker and Dizzee Rascal as it marks the 20th anniversary of its opening.
Ibiza Rocks has previously hosted Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa and Calvin Harris among notable performers.
Following Kelly's death on Monday, a spokesperson for the Foreign Office said, "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities,' per the BBC.
Kelly was described as a 'hugely talented and charismatic individual' in a statement from Scottish ice hockey team Dundee Stars, who he had played for.
'The Dundee Stars are truly devastated to learn that Gary Kelly has tragically passed away,' the ice hockey club wrote on Facebook. 'We send our thoughts and condolences to Gary's family, partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time."
'Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken to hear this tragic news,' their statement continued. 'Gary was hugely talented and charismatic individual who had a great future ahead of him.'
'His loss will impact many in the ice hockey community and beyond,' they added. 'He will be sadly missed. We respect and support the family's request for privacy at this extremely difficult time.'
Kelly's girlfriend, Louise Essery, shared several photos with him on Facebook as she shared a tribute per U.K. newspaper Metro.
She described him as 'inspiring' as she voiced a desire to remember the 'valuable lessons' he taught her and the cherished memories they made together.
'...It hasn't really hit me yet. Gary taught and showed me valuable lessons that I'll carry with me forever. I think it's important to remember the good times and to celebrate the love he brought into our lives,' Essery wrote. 'Everything feels heavy, and words can't express the love I have for Gary. I wish you could see how much you are loved.
'Even though our experiences together have paused, the memories we made will stay with me forever. I miss you so much already,' she added. 'Thank you for the kind messages about Gary; they mean a lot. I love you forever and always, Gary Kelly. 🤍🕊️'
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Following Evan's death two weeks ago, Ibiza Rocks released a statement that included details about the investigation into the circumstances of his death.
'Our senior management team onsite did everything possible to help the police with their investigation into events leading up to Evan's death, and to provide constant support from our customer services manager to Evan's friends,' the statement read, per Aberdeen Live.
'That has included them having 24-hour access to our senior manager for any help or questions, and giving them permission to pass on her mobile number to Evan's family should they wish to call us directly,' it continued. 'They were very appreciative of all the help and support at such a difficult time. We are deeply saddened by Evan's death, and our thoughts continue to be with his family and friends at this truly difficult time.'
Evan's mom, Lel Kellighan, shared a photo of him on Facebook alongside her own statement, per BBC News. 'I'm absolutely heartbroken to write and tell you all, earlier this week my son Evan was in a tragic accident whilst on holiday with his friends in Ibiza and sadly passed away," she wrote.
'We are all absolutely broken. Please allow us some time 💔. Funeral details will follow,' she concluded.
Ibiza Rocks did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment on Tuesday, July 22.
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